Dissolution of marriage is generally another term for divorce—but in some states it specifically refers to an uncontested divorce—a no fault divorce with a written separation agreement. And in California, for example, there is a summary dissolution that provides an expedited process under limited circumstances (California Family Code §2400).

The laws regarding various methods for dissolving a marriage are usually located in a state’s statutes—often in the Family Code or Domestic Relations Code.

In New Mexico, dissolution of marriage is synonymous with divorce and is governed by the New Mexico Statutes Annotated (NMSA), specifically within Chapter 40 - Domestic Affairs. New Mexico is a no-fault divorce state, meaning that a divorce can be granted without the need to prove wrongdoing by either spouse. Instead, the most common ground for divorce is 'irreconcilable differences' which have caused the breakdown of the marriage (NMSA 1978, Section 40-4-1). The state does not have a formal process labeled as 'summary dissolution' like California, but it does offer a simplified procedure for uncontested divorces where both parties agree on all terms of the divorce, including property division, alimony, and child custody. This is often referred to as a 'kinetic divorce.' When both parties are in agreement, they may file a Marital Settlement Agreement along with their Petition for Dissolution of Marriage, which can expedite the process. However, if there are disputes, the divorce process may involve mediation, settlement conferences, or a trial to resolve the issues.